YOUTH RETREAT - 'EPHATA' 2009 OF GULBARGA DIOCESE HELD
- Report By: ICYM, Gulbarga Diocese
Gulbarga, Nov 6- 2009 : "YUVA CHETANA" Youth commission of Gulbarga Diocese under the leadership of Youth Director- Rev. Fr Michael SDB organised 'EPHATA' 2009, a Youth retreat programme on October 29th to November 1st, 2009 at Mother of Divine Grace Cathedral- CAMPUS- Gulbarga. The Resource Persons were : Rev. Fr Franklin D'Souza, Regional Youth Director, Bangalore; Rev. Fr. Roman Pinto, Youth Director- Shimpoga Diocese; Bro. T. K. George and Bro. William (Music).
Program started with praise and worship led by Bro. William D'Souza.
Rev. Fr. Roman Pinto Spoke on Word of God and its relevance in youth life today, he also explained the importance of the Ten Commandments in youth life, faith and suffering and Mary our Mother- we have to honour her.
Rev. Fr Franklin D'Souza Spoke on Youth and Prayer Life, Forgiveness brings healing, When sin enters Holiness exits; so repent and believe- importance of confession in youth life was made known to the youth.
Bro. T.K.George Spoke on God's Love, Inner Healing, Sin and its consequences, and Holy Spirit.
Confessions were arranged on 31st evening. More than twelve priests were present.
Everyday from 7 pm to 9 pm healing Adoration was conducted and prayed for the Youth. On the last day November 1st, laying of the hands and prayed for all the youth.
On November 1st, Shepherd of the Diocese Most Rev. Robert Miranda offered Mass at 11 Am and invited the youth to live a life according to the beatitudes. He explained the work done in this mission diocese. He also stressed the importance of Saints, why all saints day is celebrated- they are saints because of their Love and witnessing lives. He invited youth to witness JESUS fearlessly and tirelessly.
At the end of the Mass, the Diocesan Youth Director Rev. Fr. Michael SDB thanked the team. Bishop honored the preachers with Shawl and garland. Total 180 youth participated in this programme.